By Rana Farooq Ashraf
The founder of Pakistan, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, once declared, “Pakistan is the Fortress of Islam.” Today, under the leadership of a Syed and Hafiz-e-Quran Army Chief, Pakistan has proven those words to be an absolute reality. We have emerged as the guardians of peace in a world often blinded by power, proving that our national identity and existence cannot be easily erased. Today, Pakistanis traveling abroad are no longer citizens of an unknown or struggling nation; the Pakistani passport is now viewed with respect in immigration lines, media houses, and global corridors of power. This newfound prestige is not a matter of chance but a result of the spiritual and professional strength of our leadership. It is well-documented that General Syed Asim Munir maintains a rigorous daily routine of reciting the Holy Quran, and it is through this divine blessing that the nation is being honored with such unprecedented global stature.
The world is currently witnessing a historic strategic shift where Pakistan has become the central axis of global diplomacy. The recent two-week ceasefire between the United States and Iran, mediated entirely through Pakistan’s efforts, has saved the world from a catastrophic conflict. Leaders from the German Chancellor to Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, along with the European Union, France, Italy, and the United Kingdom, have publicly thanked Pakistan. Islamabad’s “Peace Plan” succeeded where the United Nations, NATO, and the entire European machinery had failed, effectively averting a global energy crisis and a potential nuclear flashpoint. The upcoming negotiations in Islamabad on April 10th, expected to feature high-level representatives from the Trump administration—including JD Vance and Jared Kushner—mark a golden chapter in our diplomatic history. From the streets of Tehran to Mashhad, the echoes of “Shukriya Pakistan” (Thank you, Pakistan) signify a victory that transcends borders, proving Pakistan is the most vital player in regional stability.
On the defense front, Pakistan has established its military invincibility. According to international reports and the U.S. Congressional findings, Pakistan’s performance during “Operation Sindoor” shattered the arrogance of our neighbor, fundamentally altering the regional balance of power. India, which once harbored ambitions of regional hegemony, now finds itself in a position where it must normalize relations with Pakistan if it wishes to progress. Pakistan’s unique geography and nuclear status have placed it in a rare position where it maintains excellent strategic ties with all three global superpowers: the United States, China, and Russia. Furthermore, Pakistan has become a nightmare for terrorist entities like the TTP and BLA. Following a China-mediated agreement, the Afghan government is now compelled to expel these elements, ensuring that our western borders finally breathe the air of peace and security.
The economic horizon is also brightening as Pakistan moves toward self-reliance. Rumors regarding the withdrawal of financial deposits by the UAE have been dismissed as baseless, with officials reaffirming a decades-long strategic partnership bolstered by billions in new investment. The peace deal with Iran brings another massive dividend: the $18 billion penalty regarding the gas pipeline is now a thing of the past. Pakistan is set to receive cheap oil and gas via land routes through a barter system, which will revolutionize the domestic economy and curb inflation. This shift in status is felt by every citizen; recently, a Pakistani traveler was greeted by an international airport security officer with the words, “It is a proud day for you—your country saved the whole world.” Such moments reflect the pride that now defines the Pakistani identity.
This is the “New Pakistan” envisioned by our founding fathers. We are now among the few nations that can bridge the gap between Washington, Beijing, and Moscow simultaneously. Reports of a potential visit by the U.S. President and the hosting of global summits in Islamabad are testaments to our indispensability. As a nation of 250 million, we must offer prayers of gratitude for this historic honor. Our armed forces, our leadership, and our people have collectively proven that we are a resilient nation that cannot be suppressed. The day is not far when Pakistan’s economy will be as invincible as its defense. This success is the fruit of a leadership guided by faith and a nation standing in absolute unity. Pakistan Zindabad, Paindabad.
